MSP Sgt. Donna Thomas said two pickup trucks were in the passing lane, driving fast when the first truck pulled onto the median to avoid the patrol car. The
second truck continued southbound, rear-ending the cruiser.

"They just weren't paying attention," Thomas said. "The right lane was backed up and slowed down because of the accident. The pickup trucks were in the left lane doing typical things to try to get to the front of the line."

Both pickup truck drivers were cited for careless driving.

Vashaw will miss a couple days of work with lingering back and neck tightness after the accident, but it could have been worse, Thomas said.